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2017 Jaguar F-Pace S

If success is largely about first impressions, Jaguar has aced the initial meeting with its 2017 F-Pace that arrives as the brand's initial utility model — a stylish high-torque compact SUV with capability to spare. And this job candidate isn't just an interview star; it delivers the goods after nabbing the job.

The F-Pace, which is accurately described in the marketing campaign as a "performance SUV," leans toward performance with its supercharged 3.0L V-6 — a 380-hp powerplant that's tuned to deliver torque at highway speeds. This vehicle will appeal to executive drivers who like to drive.

The F-Pace's V-6 comes in two power ratings, including a 340-hp model. Jaguar is also offering a four-cylinder diesel model that makes 180 hp.

Jaguar Land Rover is offering the F-Pace in five trim grades, including the base model, Premium, Prestige, R-Sport, and S. The 20d designates a diesel F-Pace, while the 35t notes a gasoline V-6. All-wheel drive is standard across the lineup.

Photo by Vince Taroc.

Part of the reason why the F-Pace is so light on its feet comes from the extensive use of aluminum body panels. The body is 80% aluminum and 20% high-strength steel, which includes one-third recycled aluminum. The doors are made of steel to improve weight distribution.

We tested the 2017 F-Pace S on the winding roads of the Sequoia National Park on the western slope of the High Sierras. There were no switchbacks the vehicle couldn't master, and the all-wheel drive capability was well suited for sporadic rainfall that made the drive more challenging. The vehicle offers several traction-control modes for various driving surfaces.

The F-Pace comes with automatic stop-start that helps increase operating efficiency. It has been rated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to achieve 23 mpg on the highway, 18 mpg in the city, and 20 mpg in combined driving.

In the cabin, the F-Pace adds Jaguar Land Rover's next-generation InControl Touch Pro that provides a quantum leap in processing power and a 10.2-inch touchscreen. The system will also be rolled out with the 2017 Land Rover Discovery.

The 2018-MY Leaf brings a host of new technological upgrades and sports a redesigned look. The new model year not only brings a lower entry price point but also offers the most range out of all sub-$30,000 electric cars.

One of the biggest selling points of the 2017 Hyundai Ioniq hybrid is its fuel efficiency. Touted as the most fuel-efficient hybrid vehicle in America, the base Blue model boasts fuel efficiency of 58 mpg combined.

Hyundai brings a strong competitor to the battery EV segment with its new Ioniq Electric sedan. On a full charge, it gets 124 miles MPGe and is one of the larger electric vehicles at 176 inches in length.

The redesigned 2017 Impreza has been built on Subaru’s new platform that improves stability and reduces road noise and vibration. The fuel-efficient, all-wheel-drive Impreza makes for a good commuter vehicle — available in either a sedan or hatchback.

One conclusion to come out of a full day of driving the 2017 CX-5 through varying terrains is that the crossover definitely deserves consideration from fleets looking to outfit some of their drivers with a car that’s fun to drive, full of amenities perfect for transporting clients, and has a bevy of safety-related options available.